“All of this stuff begs the question of why we lose power to begin with? Sure anyone can let some habit eventually get the best of them, but is there something deeper? My personal belief is that addiction, depression, anger, boredom, anxiety and all of the rest are but symptoms of a LIFE problem [which is one part of what I mean by addiction as a spiritual problem], and I don’t just mean the addict’s refusal to live life on life’s terms. The truth is that many of us begin to feel frustrated when we are not on our proper life path, when we have no meaning or purpose. When we fail to be who we are and do what we love or need to do, whatever that may be, we begin to suffer.
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…and doing what you love to do. |
So while we have the immediate problem of dealing with the loss of power, as we begin to change and grow, we must nourish our longer term well-being by engaging in things that fulfill and nourish who we are. For some, this is athletics. For others, it is music, art or acting. Some love science, invention or astronomy. Others love literature, history or philosophy. Some love food, restaurants, business or finance [and no, there is nothing wrong or evil about making money and being successful or wanting to make money and be successful, despite what you’ve been hearing lately], while others love nature, hiking or sailing on the ocean. Whatever the case, whether it is just some hobby or our entire life path, we must honor ourselves and be true to who we are. If we do this work but something still nags at us, there may yet be something missing. Being on a life path that we resonate with might be one of the most important criteria for personal healing, growth and happiness… no?” –Anybody Can Take Steps
I really love this one, Charlie. (Little teary right now.) I think this is true for nonaddicts too (me). Had never looked at it like this before. Gave your name/blog out again last night, so was thinking of you this morning and this was such a sweet discovery. Thought I'd let you know. I AM reading, but I am also sharing. You have a lot of good things to share, and you ARE appreciated.
Thank you so much, Lor. Thinking of you, too. And hey, thanks for sharing. I'm wrapping up the universal step book this week, so I'm hoping families, parents and spouses will find some comfort and usefulness there. Happy New Year 🙂
Thank you for this essential and life giving reminder. You have so much wisdom and care so much for the health and happiness of your fellow man and woman.